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Intrahepatic portal venous variations: prevalence with US
M Atri1, P M Bret, M A Fraser-Hill
1Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Montreal General Hospital, Que, Canada.
Radiology
|July 1, 1992
Summary
This study found variations in the intrahepatic portal venous system in 20.1% of patients. Common variants include trifurcation and aberrant segmental branches, highlighting the importance of understanding portal vein anatomy.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Vascular Anatomy
- Radiology
Background:
- The intrahepatic branching of the portal venous system exhibits anatomical variations.
- Accurate knowledge of portal vein anatomy is crucial for surgical and interventional procedures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the prevalence of variants in the intrahepatic branching of the portal venous system.
- To document common variations for improved diagnostic accuracy.
Main Methods:
- Prospective ultrasound (US) examination of 507 patients.
- Detailed analysis of intrahepatic portal vein branching patterns.
Main Results:
- Prevalence of variants was 20.1% (102/507 patients).
- Trifurcation (10.8%), right posterior segmental branch from main portal vein (4.7%), and right anterior segmental branch from left portal vein (4.3%) were most common.
- Absence of the horizontal segment of the left portal vein was rare (0.2%).
- Complete absence of the right portal vein was not observed.
Conclusions:
- Anatomical variations of the intrahepatic portal venous system are relatively common.
- Understanding these variants is essential for radiologists and surgeons.
- Ultrasound is an effective tool for identifying portal venous system anomalies.